Harnessing the Healing Power of Nature in Play and Expressive Therapy

In this workshop, participants will embark on a journey that seamlessly blends the therapeutic benefits of nature with the profound impact of play therapy and expressive arts. Nature has an innate ability to heal and rejuvenate, and when integrated into therapeutic practices, it becomes a powerful catalyst for personal growth and well-being. Through a combination of experiential activities, case studies, and interactive discussions attendees will explore innovative ways to leverage the healing potential of nature, fostering a deeper connection between the natural world and therapeutic interventions.

This workshop is designed for mental health professionals seeking to enhance their therapeutic toolkit, offering a unique approach that integrates nature-based interventions with play therapy and expressive arts to promote healing and holistic well-being. Participants will gain practical insights into the therapeutic benefits of nature immersion, understand the science behind the healing power of nature, and learn creative ways to incorporate nature-inspired elements into play and expressive therapy sessions.

Participants are asked to collect some nature items to have with them during the workshop. Suggestions of items include: leaves, feathers, shells, stones, rocks, acorns, pinecones, leaves, sticks, etc.

Learning Objectives:

1. Examine the research regarding the positive effects of nature on mental and physical health.

2. Demonstrate play therapy techniques grounded in the therapeutic powers of play to use with children, adolescents, groups, and families.

3. Demonstrate play therapy interventions that help children and families cultivate mindfulness.

4. Explore cross-cultural examples of how nature-based experiences can benefit children and families with a wide range of needs.

5. Explore ways to translate interventions for tele-health sessions.

6. Identify 5-6 nature-based play therapy interventions that utilizes elements from nature (feathers, shells, sticks, gems, clay, sand, stones, water).

This program is co-sponsored by Let’s Play Therapy Institute. Let’s Play Therapy Institute is an APT Approved Provider 20-609. This program offers 6.0 APT Contact CE hours. Play therapy credit may not be awarded to non-mental health professionals. Courses that do not qualify for play therapy credit are clearly listed.

Participants will be required to complete an evaluation immediately upon conclusion of the workshop to receive a certificate. The CE certificate is awarded to those who attend the entire workshop.

Please note that the Association for Play Therapy (APT) alone holds the right to accept or deny any continuing education training at its discretion.

Register by May 14, 2024